Makruzz vs Government Ferries: Which One Should You Choose for Andaman Travel?

When planning your dream trip to the Andaman Islands, one question almost every traveler faces is:

Should I book a Makruzz ferry or take a Government ferry?

Both options connect the key islands Port Blair, Havelock (Swaraj Dweep), and Neil (Shaheed Dweep). But the experience you’ll get can be very different depending on which you choose.

This guide will give you a detailed comparison of Makruzz vs Government ferries across fares, speed, comfort, services, punctuality, and real traveler feedback , so you can decide what’s best for your trip.

Why Ferry Choice Matters in Andaman

Andaman is a group of islands, and ferries are the lifeline of inter-island travel. Flights only connect mainland India to Port Blair. Once you’re in Port Blair, the only way to reach Havelock or Neil is by sea.

With tourism booming, ferry demand is high, and making the right choice ensures you save time, travel comfortably, and keep your holiday stress-free.

Quick Comparison: Makruzz vs Government Ferries

Fare Comparison

• Makruzz:
  • Premium Class: ₹1,200 – ₹1,800
  • Deluxe Class: ₹2,000 – ₹2,500
  • Royal Class: ₹3,000 – ₹3,500
    Prices vary depending on the sector (Port Blair ↔ Havelock, Neil ↔ Havelock, etc.) and demand.
• Government Ferries:
  • ₹500 – ₹1,200 approx. (flat fares, minimal difference between islands).
    Cheapest option but with compromised comfort and speed.

If you’re a budget backpacker, government ferries may appeal. For families, honeymooners, or travelers with limited time, Makruzz justifies the extra cost.

Speed & Travel Time

• Makruzz is a catamaran-style high-speed ferry. It takes:
  • Port Blair ↔ Havelock: ~90 minutes
  • Port Blair ↔ Neil: ~60 minutes
  • Neil ↔ Havelock: ~60–75 minutes
• Government Ferries are slower passenger ships:
  • Port Blair ↔ Havelock: 2.5–4 hours
  • Neil ↔ Havelock: ~2 hours

If you want to maximize sightseeing time, Makruzz is the clear winner.

Comfort & Cabin Experience

Makruzz Ferry Interiors

• Fully air-conditioned cabins.
• Aircraft-style plush seating with proper legroom.
• 3 seating categories:
  • Premium (economical, still AC & comfortable)
  • Deluxe (extra space & better views)
  • Royal (luxury, recliner-style seating, priority service).
• Onboard cafeteria for tea, coffee, snacks.
• Clean washrooms and well-maintained interiors.
• Windows for sea views.

Government Ferry Interiors

• Basic seating — often wooden or metal benches.
• Mostly non-AC, though some vessels have limited AC cabins.
• No structured classes; seats are first-come-first-serve.
• Washrooms are often poorly maintained.
• No food counters; you may need to carry your own snacks/water.

Travelers describe Makruzz as “like flying on water”, while government ferries are more of a “local transport experience.”

Service & Booking Experience

• Makruzz:
  • Book online via official portal, agent sites, or WhatsApp.
  • Tickets confirmed instantly.
  • Customer support available.
  • Onboarding is smooth and organized.
• Government Ferries:
  • No online booking (for tourists).
  • Must stand in long queues at Port Blair ticket counters.
  • Tickets open only a few days before travel.
  • Often confusing for first-time travelers.

 If convenience matters, Makruzz offers hassle-free booking.

Punctuality & Reliability

• Makruzz:
  • Maintains strict schedules.
  • Rarely delayed unless due to weather.
  • Timings optimized for tourists’ itineraries.
• Government Ferries:
  • Frequently delayed or canceled.
  • Timings may change at the last minute.
  • Can cause missed hotel bookings, dive trips, or return flights.

For tourists on tight itineraries, government ferry risks are high.

Who Should Choose What?

• Choose Makruzz if…
  – You’re a couple, honeymooner, or family.
  – You value comfort, cleanliness, and punctuality.
  – You’re on a short 4–5 day trip and don’t want to waste time.
  – You prefer confirmed advance bookings.
• Choose Government Ferries if…
  – You’re a solo backpacker on a tight budget.
  – You don’t mind waiting in queues or slower travel.
  – You’re okay with basic facilities and possible delays.

• Makruzz Premium Class: Blue cushioned seats, 2×2 layout, wide windows.
• Makruzz Deluxe Class: More legroom, 2×2 with extra aisle space, bigger viewing windows.
• Makruzz Royal Class: Reclining leather seats, front-row panoramic windows, fewer passengers for exclusivity.
• Government Ferries: Rows of metal/wooden benches, open-air decks, crowded seating.

Safety & Trust

• Makruzz: Private operator, follows strict safety protocols, modern catamarans, trained crew.
• Government Ferries: Safe but older vessels, less tourist-oriented, sometimes overcrowded.

Ideal Itinerary Combinations with Makruzz

• 4 Nights / 5 Days: Port Blair → Havelock → Neil → Port Blair
• 6 Nights / 7 Days: Port Blair → Havelock (2N) → Neil (2N) → Port Blair (2N)
• Ferry timings allow morning departures and midday returns, maximizing sightseeing.

Final Verdict: Which Ferry Should You Choose?

If you’re in the Andamans for a holiday, honeymoon, or family trip, Makruzz is the better choice. It’s faster, safer, more comfortable, and tourist-friendly.

If you’re a budget backpacker or long-term traveler, the government ferry may work , but expect long waits, slower travel, and less comfort.

Most Indian tourists today prefer Makruzz for a stress-free Andaman experience.